Academic Success Center celebrates official opening

By Kim Chaudoin | Oct 31, 2012

Lipscomb University celebrated the official opening of the Academic Success Center (ASC), which provides students and faculty a “one-stop shop” for the university’s academic support resources in one location, on Nov. 1.

The ASC, located on the first floor of Beaman Library, combines academic support and enrichment functions from across campus into one location designed specifically to enhance learning and collaboration. Located in newly renovated facilities in the lower level of Beaman Library, the ASC is home to the math lab, writing studio, academic advising, tutoring and student advocacy among other programs.

The ASC has been open for student use since Aug. 20. From that time through Oct. 28, more than 600 students have visited the facility 3,348 times accounting for 3,788 hours of study and academic engagement, said Brian Mast, senior director of the Academic Success Center.

"These numbers excite me and the future of the Academic Sucess Center and how we are meeting the needs of our students," said Mast.

The center is equipped with a conference/presentation room, computers and iPads to use while studying, a software program for English language learners and students with disabilities, and walls that can be written on like dry-erase boards, in addition to other features.

The ASC was launched with a gift from the Shumard Foundation, founded by board of trustee member, Kenneth Shumard and his wife, Joyce.

"It is a joy to see what Lipscomb University is doing," Ken Shumard told the crowd assembled to help dedicate the center. "We are passionate about how we can help students get the tools they need to complete their academic journey. It's great to see the results they are getting here adn know that this center is going to have a huge impact."

President L. Randolph Lowry said colleges have a responsbility not only to admit students but also to help them earn a degree.

"We've come to a shift in higher education from a time when we were satisfied with merely admitting students. Today, it is our responsbility to help them complete their degree. The reality is that our job as a university is done complete unless a student is successful in this academic enterprise," he said. "The Shumards are very passionate about Christian education and are very interested in the success of students. This center is a reflection of their spirit and their love for students. We look forward to completing the task in front of us with this center as a great resource to help us do just that."

Teresa Williams, director of student advocacy, said the center will help students fulfill their educational goals.

"I have one of the best jobs. Every day I get to partner with students to help them achieve their goal of completing a college education. I am amazed at their tenacity," she said. "We are committed to helping students at Lipscomb to succeed academically. Being able to have academic resources in one place here in the center makes it so much easier for students to access the resources that are available to them."

Student Leslie Ware, a psychology major, said the Academic Success Center has helped her improve her grades and study habits.

"This is one of the best resources that a student can go to on campus," she said. "I have been coming to the center since the day it opened. Students at Lipscomb should embrace this opportuntiy and realize that the faculty and staff are here to help you. My grades have already improved from going to the math lab. I am just happy and blessed to be at a university where this is offered."

For more information about the Academic Success Center and its operating hours, contact Mast at 615.966.1400 or brian.mast@lipscomb.edu.